1981 Ford Escort vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Escort would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 816 kg more than 1981 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Ford Escort, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (310 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Escort | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | S |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 3090 mm |
